Pleasance Theatre Trust gears up for its 40th festival with a star-studded lineup at the Fringe

The Pleasance Theatre Trust is set to celebrate its 40^th festival this August, promising a rich programme of theatre, comedy, cabaret and family productions as part of the iconic Fringe festival. As the weather warms up and summer approaches, attendees can look forward to a lineup that includes past Comedy Award winners, viral sensations, national treasures and promising new talent. The festival will feature unmissable shows, with venues like the Courtyard, the Dome and the EICC serving as cultural hotspots where audiences can enjoy a drink before diving into the lively performances.

One of the standout acts this year is the remarkable 82-year-old actress Miriam Margolyes, who returns to the Fringe with her new show, Margolyes & Dickens: The Best Bits, a delightful fusion of her passion for Charles Dickens and her extraordinary talent in character portrayal. Attendees can also engage with Margolyes in a Q&A session, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Rosie Jones, Catherine Cohen, and Jazz Emu are among the comedy highlights. Rosie Jones explores her identity in Triple Threat, while Catherine Cohen returns with a new comedy cabaret show after her successful Netflix special. Jazz Emu, with his new show Knight Fever, accompanied by a live band, seeks to entertain and possibly secure a knighthood.

New Zealand’s comedy pop-music duo Two Hearts, featuring Laura Daniel and Joseph Moore, presents Til Death Do Us Hearts. This show blends music and comedy, promising hot new songs and laughter. Arturo Brachetti, the world-renowned quick-change artist, takes the stage with SOLO, his most ambitious show yet. Featuring a spectacular array of lights, illusions, and over 50 characters, SOLO promises to be a visual feast.

The festival will also see the debut of Kemah Bob and the return of Chloe Petts and Colin Hoult with their new stand-up shows. Bob brings her unique humour following appearances on various shows, while Petts gets personal in How You See Me, How You Don’t. Hoult’s show Colin delves into family and fatherhood, with a twist of the supernatural.

Showstopper! The Improvised Musical returns for its 15^th year, continuing to dazzle audiences with its on-the-spot musical creations based on audience suggestions. This show remains a Fringe favourite for its unpredictability and humour. After successful runs in London, the festival will also welcome Awkward Productions with their show Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story and the viral hit Gwyneth Goes Skiing – an interactive tale of love, betrayal, and skiing where the audience serves as the jury.

David William Bryan’s impactful performances in Fragility of Man and In Loyal Company are must-sees, telling powerful stories of justice and survival. The festival will also host lighthearted and family-friendly shows like A Jaffa Cake Musical and Man of Science by Doktor Kaboom. These shows promise laughter and learning, appealing to a wide audience range.

With more announcements to come, the Pleasance at Fringe is set to be the hotspot for a summer filled with memorable performances and groundbreaking shows. 

The editorial unit
Image: Paul Stewart

For further information visit the theatre’s website here.